Fun and fundraising
SEPTEMBER 2004, — VOLUME 2 ISSUE 10
Getting out and starting a healthy lifestyle can take motivation. What could be better motivation than raising money to fight one of Canada’s most widespread diseases?
The Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Bike Tour is an annual fundraising event for the MS Society of Canada, a non-profit charity which helps to fund research for multiple sclerosis and supports those who suffer from it.
This tour kicks off Sept. 20 and organizers hope Kamloops residents, and those living in surrounding communities, will be out in force to support it.
“We just want people to come out and have a good time and raise whatever they can,” says Marcia Popoff, spokesperson for the Kamloops chapter of the MS Society. “One of our goals is increasing awareness and participation and not necessarily asking people to raise [a certain amount].”
Promoting fun and activity is forefront for the Kamloops chapter, but it’s a mantra that has proven financially successful as well. Last year, the chapter raised $100,000, donating $36,000 directly to MS research. Popoff and her staff hope this year’s MS Bike Tour will exceed last year’s efforts.
Popoff says people have many reasons to get involved with an event like the Bike Tour.
“A lot of our participants have a personal connection. They know somebody who has been affected by MS,” she says. “Often when people raise money it’s not for dollars, it’s for telling people about MS. [When] they’re out raising money, people ask ‘Oh, what’s MS?’ because a lot of people don’t know.”
Local resident Rick van Schagen is one such person. Since he knows people who have been affected by MS, he’s excited about promoting awareness while enjoying the atmosphere of the ride. He’s raised $300 so far, surpassing his original goal of $100. He soon expects to reach his new goal of $500.
“Fundraising events like this are very motivational,” he says. “It makes you realize how lucky we are to be able to participate.”
The fundraising efforts of van Schagen and others aid those with a disease that affects thousands countrywide. The MS Society of Canada estimates 50,000 Canadians suffer from the symptoms of MS, which can range from blurred vision to paralysis.
While the disease is serious, Popoff maintains that raising money for a cure doesn’t have to be. The MS Bike Tour is meant to be a fun day for everyone involved. van Schagen agrees, saying its great reputation is why he signed up. “It’s a great cause and from what I’ve heard, a great day of riding and friendship.”
For more information visit:
www.MSBikeTours.com
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